678. Considerations of Static/Dynamic Balancing of Large Bodies

Paper

Abstract

Control of re-entry vehicles without the use of movable control surfaces or gimballed engines places high demands on alignment of center of gravity and thrust centerline. This alignment can be accomplished only through accurate determination of both the vehicle center of gravity and the motor thrust centerline and the subsequent alignment. Techniques for accurate center-of-gravity determination and alignment of this CG onto the thrust centerline are discussed, with emphasis on the experiences encountered in using both static and dynamic balance procedures.